Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday launched the Odisha Marine Biotechnology Research & Innovation Corridor (OMBRIC), an initiative by the Science & Technology Dept.
It may be mentioned here that recognizing the immense potential of the 574 km long coastline packed with unexplored rich marine bio-resources, Odisha Science & Technology Department has conceptualised OMBRIC as a pioneering initiative aimed at transforming and positioning Odisha into a global leader in marine biotechnology and Blue Economy development in future.
The initiative has the potential to contribute immensely to the field of environment protection, science-based tourism, investment, employment, and livelihood support to local populations in coastal areas.
An R&D collaboration MoU was also signed here between the State’s Science & Technology Department and National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Union Ministry of Earth Sciences.
Besides, six higher education institutions in Odisha also signed MoU with the Odisha Government to provide R&D support for the initiative.
“This unique platform will become a beacon of hope for the scientific community and innovation, not only for Odisha, but for the entire nation and the world. It can transform our blue economy and contribute significantly to the nation’s economic growth”, CM Majhi said on the occasion.
At a time when the world is looking towards the oceans for solutions to some of our most pressing challenges, from sustainable food systems to climate resilience, the CM said that Odisha is taking a bold and visionary step forward.
CM said that OMBRIC is designed not just as a research program, but as a platform where young entrepreneurs of Odisha can build marine biotech startups grounded in local resources and global standards.
He further said that OMBRIC connects the lab to the land, and research to real-world impact. From gene discovery to bioactive molecules, from bioremediation to nutraceuticals, this initiative covers the entire pipeline of marine biotechnology innovation, culminating in job creation, environmental sustainability, and economic growth.
Expressing confidence in the initiative, he asserted that Odisha is no longer just a coastal state. Odisha now seeks to be a coastal innovator. We are not just blessed by nature; we are investing in nature-based solutions. We are harnessing our biodiversity not by exploiting it, but by preserving, understanding, and responsibly utilizing it, he added.
Taking note of the geographic advantage, and strength of academic and research institutes of Odisha, the CM said that we have initiated an alliance of knowledge, research, and innovation to explore the unseen gifts and threats of this coast with the help of biotechnology.
To ensure targeted and high-impact execution, six premier institutions in Odisha have been selected as hubs of OMBRIC based on their scientific expertise and regional relevance.
Crucially, OMBRIC is designed to translate research into tangible economic outcomes. Through IP generation, incubation support, and entrepreneurial mentoring, research findings will evolve into market-ready products, fostering the growth of marine biotech startups and enterprises. This “lab-to-market” pipeline ensures a sustainable ecosystem for innovation-driven marine industrialisation in Odisha.
In addition to advancing research, OMBRIC places strong emphasis on community engagement and social impact. The initiative seeks to involve coastal populations through training, education, and participatory conservation, thereby fostering marine stewardship while improving local livelihoods and social equity.